Making Yourself Unstoppable: A Conversation with Del Walker

As part of GamesIndustry.biz's Black Voices Progress Report, Del Walker, a seasoned game artist, discusses his experiences and offers valuable advice to aspiring developers. With a career spanning 14 years, Walker has worked with notable studios like Naughty Dog and Creative Assembly, and is now a principal artist at Wildlight. Walker acknowledges that being a Black developer in the industry comes with its own set of challenges, but emphasizes the importance of focusing on one's skills to overcome them. He credits his early mentorship and online communities like PolyCount for helping him develop his craft and navigate the industry. However, Walker also highlights the difficulties faced by Black developers, including feeling like an outsider in the industry and facing systemic racism. He notes that these challenges can lead to slower career progression and limited opportunities for advancement. Despite these challenges, Walker emphasizes the importance of self-improvement and making oneself "undeniable" in the industry. He believes that by focusing on developing one's skills and building a strong personal brand, Black developers can increase their chances of success. Walker also discusses the importance of community and networking in the industry. He notes that having a strong network of peers and mentors can provide valuable support and opportunities for growth. However, he also cautions against using networking as a means to solely advance one's career, emphasizing the importance of genuine connections and relationships. When asked what the industry can do to become more accessible to Black developers, Walker suggests that hiring junior roles and providing opportunities for growth and development can help address diversity issues. He believes that by investing in junior talent, the industry can create a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Overall, Walker's conversation offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by Black developers in the gaming industry. His emphasis on self-improvement, community, and networking provides valuable advice for aspiring developers looking to make a mark in the industry.